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While driver himself admits he had some nerves ahead of the start

Last Updated: 15/10/12 10:23am

Grosjean had arrived in Yeongam on the back of stinging criticism over his driving standards from Red Bull's Mark Webber and Christian Horner in particular after he had rammed into the former's car at the start of the previous week's race at Suzuka - his seventh such first-lap accident this season.

With the 26-year-old's performance therefore under even more scrutiny in Korea, Grosjean managed to stay out of trouble on the first lap - although did run off the circuit at turn three to avoid the incidents of other cars around him - and then drove an error-free race to seventh after a long battle with Force India's Nico Hulkenberg.

Afterwards his Team Principal suggested the performance showed the former GP2 Champion was learning from his mistakes.

"It was good to see Romain drive very sensibly despite all the pressure that is on his shoulders," Boullier said.

"I think he is learning from this experience and it will only make him a stronger driver."

Sky Sports F1's post-race analysis of Grosjean's start to the race showed that the Frenchman took a very cautious approach to the first corner, clearly trying to steer clear of any potential close-combat incidents with other cars.

Grosjean himself has admitted he had some trepidation over the start but was pleased to survive the first lap with his car in one piece and go on to record a points finish.

"For sure I was a bit nervous starting the race today, but we did a lot of work this week trying to understand a few things and it's certainly helped," he said.

"It wasn't the easiest start; there was contact behind me at turn three and I took evasive action but after that it was quite straightforward.

"I struggled on the last set of tyres as I had graining straight away, meaning the performance was not great during the final stint. Maybe, we could have achieved one place better but I am happy to make it to the chequered flag after a good, clean race."